The Campaign Against the Return of the Marcoses and Martial Law (CARMMA) said that the appointment of Supreme Court Associate Justice Rodil Zalameda as the country’s 28th Chief Justice paves the way for the further absolution of the Marcos family from accountability.
Zalameda authored the Supreme Court decision acquitting former First Lady Imelda Marcos of seven counts of graft, effectively allowing the Marcos family to evade accountability for the accumulation of ill-gotten wealth during the Marcos Sr. dictatorship. His appointment to the highest post in the judiciary appears to be a returned favor. We are deeply concerned about what other decisions the highest court of the land will hand down under the Marcos administration and beyond, particularly on cases involving the interests of those in power.
It is not only the Marcoses who have been shielded from accountability, but also the Dutertes. We should not forget that Zalameda also authored the Supreme Court decision dismissing the petition that sought to compel the Senate to convene as an impeachment court and try Vice President Sara Duterte. This ruling has effectively allowed the further delay of impeachment proceedings and the pursuit of accountability against Duterte.
As justice remains elusive for the Filipino people, Zalameda’s appointment may be seen as a continued obstruction of accountability for both the Marcoses and the Dutertes. The powerful of the country responsible for plunder, repression, and human rights violations, continue to wield power and evade justice.
Nevertheless, we will continue to demand that the Supreme Court uphold its independence and serve the interests of the Filipino people. We shall remain vigilant in the pursuit of truth, justice, and accountability, and ensure that those who have wronged the people are ultimately held accountable.
